WALES’S lingering dream of convincing Ryan Shawcross to play for them is almost over after the Stoke City captain from Buckley made his England debut in the 4-2 friendly defeat in Sweden.

Before the game 25-year-old Shawcross reiterated that he never wanted to play for Wales and, although the door is technically still slightly ajar as his cap came in a friendly, the centre-back looks certain to remain part of the England set-up under Roy Hodgson.

It was a torrid night for England, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic making 74th minute substitute Shawcross and his fellow England defenders look ordinary as he scored all four goals. He turned former Elfed High School pupil Shawcross a minute after he came on to score his second and completed his four-goal haul with superb late overhead kick from 25 yards to christen Sweden’s new Friends Arena.

But Shawcross’ club manager Tony Pulis said the experience would make his skipper a better player.

“I texted him before the game to wish him luck and again after the game.

“We are as proud as punch that we've got a player who’s represented England.

“Ryan and his family, and everybody connected with him, will be very, very proud.”